There are a lot 8.1 supporters on here and u've always said that it is always better to have more power and not need it, then to not have enough and want it later. This case is the one exception I can think of and is backsaw of issues the 8.1 platform has had. There are many many replacements and this is not a supported engine any longer. It was used for a short time and at some point parts may be an issue. I have the 6.0 in my 45 and I'm very happy. I run loaded with no problems all the time. I'd go local and with a more reliable engine and have no surprises!!!

I've had mine for four years, no issue. No several guys around here with it that haven't had issues either. What evidence do you have to support your claim?

Search on here for posts by MYMC regarding the 8.1 He's not here anymore, but he is a former MC dealer and a professional engine builder. If you put in the time, you will find answers to all of your questions, with substantiation. Not rhetoric, propaganda, or anything else. My take on everything I read over the past 6 years is that there is no way I would want less of an engine in a boat of that size given the opportunity.

When your spending this kind of money get exactly what you want. The end of the summer is here in the southeast so do get impatient right now because in 30-60 days it will be in the garage. I'm a color person too. I would always choose color over motor. I also think it's important your wife likes it too. If you carry her to the lake in boat she didn't want to buy and something happens you will hear.....I told you we should've bought the other boat.

I was in the same spot at the start of summer...I had a pocket full of money and looking for a boat. Which isn't a good spot to be, but I waited and found one exactly like I was wanting it did take 30-45 days but I did find it! It was an easy deal and was 4 hours form home. I heard my wife say three to four times this year, I'm so glad we waited and got exactly what we wanted, and I agree. We've really enjoyed our boat this year too!

You should go with the one from your local dealer, the 8.1l is an outdated engine. I would not base my decision on hours since these engines are both made to last for a lot more.

XStar08

Outdated because of emissions. The 8.1 is the best engine that has ever been available in a larger mc. The only reason every big mc didn't come with one is because of the additional cost. When an engine that cost less money could "do the job" they would justify the choice.

I'm yet to see the best engine for a boat not be the most expensive option.

You should go with the one from your local dealer, the 8.1l is an outdated engine. I would not base my decision on hours since these engines are both made to last for a lot more.

XStar08

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnE

Outdated because of emissions. The 8.1 is the best engine that has ever been available in a larger mc. The only reason every big mc didn't come with one is because of the additional cost. When an engine that cost less money could "do the job" they would justify the choice.

I'm yet to see the best engine for a boat not be the most expensive option.

Exactly right. If there wasn't an additional cost of more than 12k over the MCX and 6k over the LY6, everyone would have the big block in their 45. No two ways about it.

I have yet to hear one of these people that claim there were issues with the L18 come to the table with anything to support their statements... Just goes to show you that the issues were not as many as people think.